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Figurative


Image of John Poindexter (from Triptych)

John Poindexter (from Triptych)
Painting

1988-1989
72 x 60 in. (182.88 x 152.4 cm)

Robbie Conal (New York, New York, 1944 - )

Object Type: Painting
Medium and Support: Oil on canvas
Credit Line: Gift of James Otis - Peaceful Warrior Collection
Accession Number: 2004.46.06

Exhibition


Variations on a Theme
, May 23, 2009 - February 7, 2010, New Wing, Second Floor, Central Skylight Gallery, San José Museum of Art. (Included in Part II: August 1, 2009-February 7, 2010.)

New Year, New Gifts, December 16, 2006 – May 20, 2007, New Wing, Second Floor, North and South Metro A Galleries, San José Museum of Art.

SJMA Label Text


Variations on a Theme
(2009-2010)

Robbie Conal’s long standing interest in politics and political abuses has become an intrinsic part of his artwork. Conal took particular interest in the 1986 Iran-Contra affair, when the United States clandestinely sold arms to Iran in exchange for the release of six U.S. citizens being held hostage in Lebanon. In addition, the U.S. used proceeds from the arms sale to fund anti-Communist “Contra” rebels in Nicaragua.

The triptych depicts Lieutenant Colonel Oliver North, National Security Advisor John Poindexter, and President Ronald Reagan, all key figures in the scandal. By emphasizing the wrinkled brows and shriveled lips of these men, Conal draws attention to the physical manifestation of the pursuit of power. Posters of these and other political figures were pasted around Los Angeles, New York City, and Washington, D.C. in 1986. Conal’s goal was to create a dialogue about the scandal and reach an audience beyond the traditional art community.

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This object was included in the following exhibitions:

Dimensions
  • Image Dimensions: 72 x 60 in. (182.88 x 152.4 cm)

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